Planning and Development

The Planning Act is provincial legislation that sets out the ground rules for land use planning in Ontario. It describes how land uses may be controlled, and who may control them.

The purpose of the Act is to:

• Promote sustainable economic development in a healthy natural environment within a provincial policy framework,
• Provide for a land use planning system led by provincial policy,
• Provide for fair planning processes by making them open, accessible, timely, and efficient.

The Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) provides direction on matters of provincial interest related to land use planning and development. The Provincial Policy Statement sets the policy framework to regulate the development and use of land, including the creation of the built environment, and management of resources to support the provincial goal of enhancing the quality of life for all Ontarians.

All Planning decisions in Ontario must be consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement

The Township of South Glengarry has adopted the SDG Counties’ Official Plan, outlining strategic land-use plans aligned with the Planning Act and Provincial policies. It describes the goals and objectives for development in the County, considering the following factors:

• Environment
• Agriculture
• Natural resources
• Economic and financial
• Housing
• Transportation and public services

If your development does not align with the Official Plan, you will need to apply for an Official Plan Amendment. Please visit the SDG Counties’ Official Plan webpage for more details

The Township of South Glengarry’s Zoning By-law regulates land use in each area of the Municipality. If your development application does not align with the Zoning By-law you will need to apply for a Zoning By-law Amendment. 
Please visit our Zoning webpage to view our Comprehensive Zoning By-law and Zoning Maps

The Citizen's Guide to Land Use Planning was developed by the Government of Ontario to provide property owners with helpful information about the legislation surrounding land use planning